Grandmother, Dear Grandmother

One of twenty children,

Born to labor on a farm.

You escaped to the big city,

Finally loved for all your charm.

You were my role model,

As grandmother I became.

I loved the un-wed mother,

Branded with archaic shame.

A mother working full-time

All your childbearing life,

Exhaustion filled your days,

Being worker, mom and wife.

Grandpa was blessed by you.

Claimed he “did you a favor.”

Gave your bastard a name.

Thanks! Alcoholic Savior…

Grandpa’s son was born.

A name sake, such joy!

Like my dad always said,

“Keep trying till it’s a boy!”

You were a devote woman.

Praying on your bare knees.

Living life for the others,

While they did as they pleased.

They borrowed your money.

Many stayed at your house.

Entertaining the drunkards,

Such a great 50’s spouse…

We almost lost you,

That dark, rainy night.

The car dragged you a block.

As you pulled from “the light.”

Many years have passed,

Since she left with my love.

I still hear her sweet whispers,

Drifting down from above.

I love being Grandmother.

Mine did it so well.

Her kindness and courage,

To grandchildren, I will tell…